[Sentinel Lymph Node Diagnosis for Lung Cancer].

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Surgical Oncology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• The sentinel node (SN) theory is established in lung cancer research.
• Sentinel node navigation surgery (SNNS) is not yet a routine procedure for lung cancer.
• Accurate SN identification is vital for detecting micrometastases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the significance of SN identification in lung cancer surgery.
• To review current and emerging methods for SN identification.
• To highlight the potential of SNNS in enhancing surgical outcomes and safety.

Main Methods:

• Review of established SN identification techniques (dye, radioisotope).
• Exploration of novel methods including indocyanine green (ICG), computed tomographic lymphography (CTLG), and magnetic techniques.
• Discussion of intraoperative diagnosis for early lung cancer reduction surgery.

Main Results:

• SN identification is key for selecting lymph nodes for intraoperative diagnosis.
• It ensures the curative potential of reduction surgery.
• Intraoperative rapid diagnosis of micrometastases can enhance the safety of reduction surgery.

Conclusions:

• SN identification is crucial for accurate staging and treatment selection in lung cancer.
• Emerging technologies promise to improve SNNS efficacy.
• SN identification may support the omission of lymph node dissection, reducing surgical morbidity.